'Unofficial' Bonfires

Stamping out dangerous ‘hot spots’

(Date of issue: Friday, 29 October 2010)

On the build up to Bonfire Night, Carlisle City Council is joining forces with local firefighters to stamp out dangerous ‘hot spots’.

Both agencies are asking residents not to build fires in dangerous places and to make sure they are not on land owned by the City Council, unless formal permission has been granted.

The City Council is taking a zero-tolerance approach to unofficial bonfires.

Anyone wishing to organise their own bonfire on council land, should contact the City Council, on 01228 817000, to ask permission and a series of safety measures need to be undertaken including:

• providing a public liability insurance certificate for the event;
• a risk assessment;
• safety procedures and emergency plan, including any stewarding/security arrangements;
• having an organiser who has competence/previous experience in arranging firework displays.

The Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service are also advising residents not to build fires too early and not build them close to buildings, roads or railways, and never put foam filled-furniture, tyres or aerosols onto a bonfire.
During the next week firefighters will be carrying out ‘arson audits’ across the city to identify areas where there is a build up or rubbish that could be used for unsafe bonfires.

Firefighters are advising people to attend organised bonfires where safety is a priority.

Around 35,000 people are expected to attend this year’s Carlisle City Council Fireshow (Saturday, 6 November). Staged in Bitts Park, pre-entertainment, provided by Carlisle Leisure Limited, will start at 6.30pm and the bonfire lit at 7pm. The whole event is likely to last for around an hour. The event will include a 40-foot bonfire and more than 2,000 fireworks. Admission is free.

Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service is giving their support for this year's City Council Fireshow. They will also be using the event to promote their free home safety check service and their free installation of smoke detectors, both of which can be organised by telephoning 0800 358 477.